News / Better Bristol
Using media as a force for good
Bristol24/7 launched five years ago as a community interest company with the aim of promoting independent journalism, amplifying voices and making a difference in the city.
In that time, we have had more than 500 people complete work experiences placements, a number of whom have gone on to secure full-time employment with national and local media organisations.
Bristol24/7 has won awards for its work experience programme and diversity, but we recognise the need to do more.
is needed now More than ever
There is a desperate need for more diversity in journalism and we are actively working to offer more opportunities to under-represented groups.
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Read more: Increase diversity in the media with Bristol24/7’s work experience programme
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In 2018, Bristol24/7 officially launched Better Bristol, an initiative that works in collaboration with individuals, businesses and communities to create opportunities that have a positive impact for the people of Bristol.
Through Better Bristol, we have helped secure 23 free places for young people – particularly those not in education or employment – to go through our chef training programme, run by the Square Food Foundation, which offers hands-on workplace experience, qualifications and the opportunity to go into a role in the catering industry.
As part of the initiative, Bristol24/7 gives a minimum of £2,000 worth of free marketing to a Bristol-based charity each quarter. This has totalled £13,000 worth of marketing to date for organisations and charities, including the Marmalade Trust, FareShare South West and Easton Community Centre.
The small team of experienced Bristol247 journalists help to provide a platform for communities and individuals to make their voices heard and highlight issues across the city through a diverse range of articles, covering news, features, culture, food and LGBTQ+, to name but a few.
Bristol24/7 also offers a platform for people to make their own voices heard and – to date – the website has hosted articles from more than 3,000 individuals, including aspiring journalists, community campaigners, local politicians and anyone with an opinion they want to share.
The Talking LGBT+ project is just one other example of the impact our work has on the wider community and beyond.
As part of the Better Bristol initiative, we also launched Better Business, a membership scheme helps businesses make connections, raise their profile, reward their staff, collaborate with each other, create a positive impact locally and be recognised as organisations who are committed to making a Better Bristol.
Better Bristol is supported by our key partners UWE Bristol (founding partner), Wapping Wharf and University Of Bristol.
Read more: What is Better Bristol?